Visions for Vacancies: What Belongs at the Former Big Boy Restaurant?

In April, we told you about the abrupt after more than 30 years of operation.

William Van Horn, the representative for the Van Horn Real Estate, which owns the property, said the restaurant closed when the longtime operator decided to retire. Further details were not immediately available.

Van Horn said he's received at least 150 telephone calls about the property, including many from upset customers that want their favorite breakfast spot to return.

"I try to be nice to them and hope they understand," the former Bloomfield Township resident said by telephone Monday. "I know it was very popular, and for a few decades in 1980s and 1990s was where a lot of business deals were done."

Constructed in 1978, the 51,000-square-foot building has more than 240 feet of frontage on northbound Telegraph and is seen by roughly 70,000 motorists a day, according to some estimates. Van Horn said the building is suited for another restaurant, though there has been interest in a multi-level financial center. A decision on a lease or sale to a company that would build on the site to suit their needs is not that far off into the future, he said.

Bloomfield Patch wants to know: What's your vision for this property?

You don't need to be a commercial developer or city planner — or have money to invest in a business project — to have the next great idea. We just want to hear about it. Please leave your ideas in the comments section below.

This is part of an ; we're excited to hear about your ideas for vacant spaces around town.